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What causes diarrhea?

There are many diarrhea causes – from the food you eat to the stress in your life; from catching a stomach flu while on vacation to taking medications or simply starting your period.1

Preparing food

Eating habits and food

Certain foods and drinks can affect your digestive system.

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Food poisoning

Food poisoning can happen at home or on vacation, seriously spoiling any occasion.

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Stress & Anxiety

Stress can disrupt your digestive system and lead to diarrhea.

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Stomach Flu

Acute Gastroenteritis occurs frequently in Canada and can result in diarrhea.

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Menstruation

Hormonal changes during menstruation can cause women to experience diarrhea monthly, in relation to their periods.

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Medications

Some people may experience diarrhea as a result of taking certain medications.

Depression

Feeling the pressure?

Read up on ways to cope with life’s stressors.

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Do you have IBS-related diarrhea?

IBS can cause diarrhea. Consult your healthcare professional if you think you may have IBS.

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Got a question?

Get the answers to our most commonly asked questions.

  1. Diarrhea. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Web site. http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-topics/digestive-dise.... NIH publication 11-2749. January 2011. Updated November 25, 2013. Accessed November 11, 2015.